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Spinach and Orzo Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe

Spinach and Orzo Salad with Feta and Almonds Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 12 reviews

A fresh and vibrant spinach and orzo salad featuring tender orzo pasta, crisp baby spinach, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
  • 1/4 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until tender. Drain the orzo and rinse lightly with cool water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, roughly chopped baby spinach, crumbled feta cheese, toasted sliced almonds, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
  4. Toss and Serve: Pour the prepared lemon dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

  • To save time, cook the orzo ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the toasted almonds or substitute with pumpkin seeds.
  • Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad more substantial as a main dish.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the feta cheese in olive oil and herbs before adding to the salad.
  • Adjust the dressing seasoning to taste, adding more lemon juice or honey if preferred.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach salad, orzo salad, feta cheese, almond salad, lemon dressing, Mediterranean salad, vegetarian salad, healthy lunch

Find it online: https://maicook.com/spinach-and-orzo-salad-with-feta-and-almonds-recipe/